A New Year’s Timeline in Pasadena

Pasadena is buzzing with excitement. Parade spectators camp out along Colorado Boulevard. The Tournament of Roses is in full swing. And as the New Year’s countdown begins, one thing is clear—there’s no better place to welcome 2026.

Here’s how the celebration unfolds, step by step.December 27–31: The Build-Up Begins
The final week of the year sets the tone for what’s ahead. Pasadena fills with visitors, locals lock in their parade spots, and runners roll into town ready to start the New Year strong.
lululemon 5K Run with the Roses Pop Up
 132 W Colorado Blvd, Pasadena
 Event Info & Registration:
https://www.lululemonrunwiththeroses5k.com
This is race central for the week. Stop by to:
Pick up your race bib

Bring a valid ID for bib pickup. Wristbands (21+) are required for alcoholic beverages and must be worn throughout the event.December 31: Midnight on Colorado Boulevard
As night falls, Colorado Boulevard transforms. Spectators gather, the energy builds, and runners take their marks on the same route the Rose Parade will travel just hours later.
lululemon 5K Run with the Roses
 Race Details:
https://www.lululemonrunwiththeroses5k.com
When the clock strikes midnight, thousands of runners surge forward for a New Year’s Eve 5K under the lights, celebrating fresh starts, big goals, and the possibilities ahead.
 Highlight: Beat the Countdown
One last run. One epic finish.
Introducing Beat the Countdown, a new Run with the Roses challenge. Select runners will toe the line early, racing to finish a 5K in under 20 minutes before midnight hits.

Eligibility requires validation from past race data.January 1 | 8:00 AM: The Rose Parade
Just hours after the final runner crosses the finish line, Pasadena wakes up to the world-famous Rose Parade presented by Honda.
 Parade Route, Viewing & Transportation Info:
https://tournamentofroses.com/event/rose-parade/
Floral floats, marching bands, and equestrian units travel the 5½-mile route down Colorado Boulevard—each float crafted entirely from natural materials and rooted in a tradition that dates back more than 100 years.January 1 | Afternoon: Floatfest
After the parade, the celebration continues at Floatfest: A Rose Parade Showcase.
 Floatfest Tickets, Hours & Shuttle Info:
https://tournamentofroses.com/event/floatfest-a-rose-parade-showcase/
Visitors can walk among the floats up close, admire the intricate details, enjoy food from top LA food trucks, and soak in the family-friendly atmosphere. Free Park & Ride shuttles make getting there easy—and shuttle riders receive priority entry.January 1 | 1:00 PM: Rose Bowl Game
The day crescendos at the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium as the College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at the Rose Bowl Game presented by Prudential kicks off.
First played in 1902, the Rose Bowl Game remains the oldest bowl game in college football and the perfect finale to New Year’s Day in Pasadena.One City. One Day. Endless Tradition.
From midnight miles with lululemon x Tournament of Roses, to floral artistry and college football history, Pasadena doesn’t just celebrate the New Year—it makes it unforgettable.
Here’s to starting 2026 the Pasadena way.